After a prolonged holdout, All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones has finally reached an agreement with the Kansas City Chiefs on a new one-year contract, putting an end to weeks of uncertainty and negotiations.
Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach expressed his delight at securing the services of the elite Jones who means so much to Kansas City’s defense and overall culture.
“Chris is an elite player in this league and over the last seven years, he’s really developed into a leader on our team,” Veach said in a statement. “He’s been instrumental to our success and Super Bowl championship runs, and it was a priority for us to keep him in a Chiefs uniform.”
“I’d like to thank Chris and his representation, Michael and Jason Katz, for their desire and patience to get this done. Through this process, two things were obvious: Chris wanted to be a Chief, and the Katz brothers worked diligently on his behalf.”
Chiefs, DT Chris Jones agree to terms on new one-year deal. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/u6R72EYqPE
— NFL (@NFL) September 11, 2023
Jones had held firm in his desire to remain with the Chiefs and proved his commitment by staying in peak physical condition during his holdout. Speaking at a charity event in Kansas City last week, Jones confidently stated: “I could play right now. I work out every day, twice a day, but in Miami with my team that I’d normally be with in my offseason. I’m staying at it.”
Jones’ return to action is eagerly anticipated by the entire organization, especially after their disappointing season-opening loss to the Detroit Lions at Arrowhead.
Jones is expected to make his season debut this Sunday when the Chiefs face off against the Jacksonville Jaguars – a game that has become even more important following their loss to the Lions.
The new contract reportedly includes incentives that could see him earn more than the $19.5 million he was originally scheduled to make this season under his old contract.
Jones missing the opening game against Detroit resulted in him forfeiting his game check, an approximate sum of $1.1 million.
The holdout saga began when Jones did not report to Chiefs training camp, making it clear that he was seeking an upgraded deal. Entering the final season of a four-year, $80 million contract he signed in 2020, Jones felt he deserved a raise.
There’s still plenty of work to be done in the long term, but for now, Jones and the Chiefs are one big happy family again.
Chris Jones is back, sorry NFL! 😬 pic.twitter.com/4icduMfvCl
— Brad Henson Productions (@BradHensonPro) September 11, 2023
What are your thoughts on the situation?
Where do you rank Jones among the best defensive players in the NFL?
With him back on the field, do you expect the Chiefs to repeat as Super Bowl champions?